A Travel Price Comparison for Belgium Brussels vs. Antwerp for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Brussels or Antwerp?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Antwerp. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Antwerp?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Antwerp. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Antwerp attracts visitors for its nightlife. Brussels is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antwerp and Brussels. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brussels or Antwerp?

Both Brussels and Antwerp have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Antwerp offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Is the Food Better in Brussels or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Brussels. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Brussels and Antwerp.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Antwerp?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Antwerp and Brussels.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Known for shopping, Antwerp draws large crowds to its stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for Families?

Brussels is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Brussels is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Antwerp is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for Students?

Brussels and Antwerp are high quality places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Antwerp is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Is Brussels or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Brussels or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Brussels and Antwerp both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Antwerp is a very walkable city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Antwerp. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Antwerp. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Brussels, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Antwerp. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Brussels that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Antwerp if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Antwerp?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The port city of Antwerp offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Antwerp?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Antwerp is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antwerp, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Antwerp?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Antwerp, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brussels Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Antwerp?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Antwerp, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Brussels or Antwerp?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Brussels or Antwerp in the Summer?

Both Antwerp and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Brussels is around the same temperature as Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Antwerp. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Antwerp. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Antwerp. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Antwerp in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Antwerp. Most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Brussels can be very cold during winter. Brussels is around the same temperature as Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Antwerp. The spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the spring, Brussels is a little warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Antwerp. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Brussels